Ringworm

What is ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect different parts of the body. How it looks depends on where it is. On the skin it presents as a roughly circular scaly itchy rash. Sometimes there may be small blisters and even pus filled spots. It can involve the nails causing them to thicken and discolour. On the scalp it often starts as a small bump, gradually spreading outwards and is associated with hair loss. On the feet there may be cracking between the toes.

What should I do now?

As Ringworm spreads through skin to skin contact or through contact with infectious skin flakes shed into clothes or the environment, it can easily spread within a school. It is important that you check your child’s skin and hair for the presence of any suspicious lesion.

What should I do if I think my child has Ringworm?

If you seen any suspicious areas on your child’s skin or scalp, bring the child to your family doctor. He will be able to decide, either by looking at it directly, by examining it with special light or by examining some skin cells under the microscope whether or not it is Ringworm. Once the diagnosis is made treatment can be given.

Can my child stay in school?

Yes. However, to prevent the spread of infection to others it is important that the affected child receive appropriate treatment.

Your family doctor and local health clinic will be able to answer any further questions that you might have about Ringworm.